What exactly does “low pH” mean, and how does it help improve your skin?

Our skin is naturally made to fight infection and other environmental stressors, and its pH level affects this ability. The skin’s pH level refers to how acidic or alkaline it is. On a scale of 1-14, with 1 being most acidic to 14 being most alkaline, 7 is considered a neutral level.

The skin has an acid mantle which serves as a natural barrier between our skin and bacteria. It is the outermost protective layer made up of skin oils, sweat, and acids. This layer has a pH of 5.5, which leans towards the acidic scale. This low pH level creates an environment that is unfriendly to acne-causing bacteria and other infection-causing germs. It also keeps the skin soft and supple!

Internal and external factors can affect the acid mantle, thus disrupting its ability to protect itself. These factors include aging, diet, products that you use, and the environment. If your skin’s pH level is too alkaline or too acidic, this will affect the acid mantle, and may cause different skin conditions like acne, dermatitis, or eczema.

One way to maintain your acid mantle is through using skincare products that balances it. Choose a mild cleanser with a slightly acidic pH that’s close to 5. Avoid cleansers with sodium laureth sulfate (SLS), which have an approximate pH level of 10 and can be drying and irritating to the skin. Try our Low pH Rose Gel Cleanser, which has a pH level of 5.5-6 that helps balance your acid mantle. It is also SLS and SLES-free!